Audrey Lee Garris

      Audrey L Garris, daughter of the late James and Lillie Garris, was born in Jackson, NC. She attended the Northampton County Public Schools and graduated from Gumberry H.S. In her youth, she joined Piney Grove Baptist Church. On November 16, 2017, she closed her eyes, quieted her pain, and ascended to a beautiful place in Heaven.
       Upon graduation from high school, Audrey moved to Paterson, NJ, and subsequently relocated to Clifton, NJ, where she resided until her passing.
       Audrey attended the School of Arts and Sciences at Thomas Edison State College, earning a B.A. Degree in 2006. She also earned 12 credits to her Masters Degree through her field work in the Alcohol and Addiction Studies Program. In addition to her academic accomplishments, she received licensure from the State of N.J. to provide counseling services including designations as a Certified Addition Drug Counselor (CADC) and Licensed Alcohol Drug Counselor (LADC).
       She joined the Paterson Counseling Center in 1975 as a Laboratory Technician. She went on to assume several positions within the clinic, eventually becoming the Clinical Director of Counseling and Medical Services.
       Known in her community for her strong advocacy for those in need of addiction treatment, Audrey was instrumental in establishing programs that expanded the level and reach of treatment services. This was a great source of pride and professional fulfillment.
       Her beautiful smile and vibrant personality will forever be cherished in the lives of her family: son, Gary Garris (Cecily) of Somerset, NJ; daughter, Yvette Washington (Stacey) of Clifton, NJ; son, Victor Edwards preceded her in death; two sisters, Dianna Garris of Hampton, VA and Shirley Tann (Curtis) of Paterson, NJ; three brothers, Louis Garris (Leona) of Conway, NC, Wade (Barbara) of Paterson, NJ and Bennie Garris (Elizabeth) of Fuquay-Varina, NC; two brothers James L. and Alex Garris preceded her in death; three grandchildren, Danielle, Alex, and Brandon Garris of Somerset, NJ; one aunt, Bernice Parker of Roanoke Rapids, NC; two grand-pups, Peanut and Champ; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

 Service Information